Controlling and Preventing Disease
-

Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of more than 9,000 manmade chemicals that have been in use worldwide since 1940, primarily in industry and numerous commercial and consumer products. The widespread use of PFAS for the past several decades has raised concerns due to their persistence, bioaccumulative nature, and potential adverse health effects. This publication provides information about the background, uses, and environmental and human health consequences of PFAS chemicals, as well as the EPA’s primary drinking water regulation standards and water treatment systems for removal/reduction of these chemicals from drinking water. Testing options and PFAS monitoring efforts by the Georgia EPD are included along with references for further reading.
Gary L. Hawkins, Pamela R. Turner, and Uttam K. Saha
|
-

Pregnancy is a time of change, and moms-to-be have a lot to think about, for themselves and for their babies. Food safety and preventing foodborne illness (sickness caused by contaminated foods) is very important during this time. There are four easy steps that pregnant women and their families can take to protect themselves and their babies and prevent foodborne illness.
Sarah Henes
|
-

Making homemade infused cooking oils comes with food safety risks, particularly for those infused with garlic and herbs. Infused oils can enhance flavor and food presentation, but the combination of oil, garlic, and herbs creates an anaerobic (low-oxygen) environment, which is ideal for the growth of the bacteria that causes botulism, which can produce a deadly neurotoxin. The publication provides essential safety tips, such as sterilizing containers and thoroughly washing and drying ingredients, to prevent contamination and ensure safe oil infusion. By following these guidelines, home food preservers can create flavorful infused oils without compromising safety.
Carla Luisa Schwan
|
-

This section of the Home & Garden Edition covers pests of public health concern such as mosquitoes, bed bugs, gnats, fleas and ticks, house flies, lice, and more. Beginning in 2022, the Home & Garden Edition has been updated biennially. When purchasing a product based on a first-year recommendation of the Handbook, check the current product label before purchase to be sure it is still labeled for the use for which you are buying it. For pesticide products you have on hand from earlier purchases, you are allowed to use them until they are depleted without penalty under the law. Always follow label instructions before use. Contact the product’s manufacturer for the most up-to-date label.
Elmer Gray and Allison Faye Johnson
|
-

This circular provides a brief overview of health insurance and common terms associated with health insurance. The publication focuses on preventive health care, specifically common preventive health care services and wellness benefits provided through health insurance plans.
Pamela R. Turner, Joan Koonce, Swarnankur Chatterjee, and Ali Berg
|
-

C 2579
Be Aware of Your Indoor Air
Did you know the air inside buildings is nearly always more polluted than outside air? Learn the types of indoor air pollution and what you can do.
This publication was originally published by the LSU AgCenter and released for use in the state of Georgia by UGA Extension Housing & Environment Specialist Pamela Turner.
Pamela R. Turner
|
-

Asthma is a lung disease that affects millions of adults and children, and can be triggered by numerous indoor pollutants such as mold, cockroaches, dust mites, pet dander, and secondhand smoke. There is no cure for asthma, but it can be managed through medication and avoiding allergens that can trigger an attack.
Stephanie Benton, Ines Beltran, and Pamela R. Turner
|